Hey there, home cooks! Are you on the hunt for some truly easy chicken breast recipes that don’t skimp on flavor? You know, the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table happy without you breaking a sweat in the kitchen? Well, you’re in luck today!
We’re about to dive into one of our favorite boneless skinless chicken breast recipes: a mouthwatering stuffed chicken breast that’s surprisingly simple to make. It’s hearty, comforting, and just what you need for a busy weeknight.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Honestly, what’s not to love about a dish that looks fancy but comes together with minimal fuss? This particular recipe for easy chicken breast recipes is a real winner because it’s so adaptable and satisfying.
First off, it uses boneless skinless chicken breast recipes, which are a staple for a reason. They cook up fast and soak up all the delicious flavors you throw their way. No bones about it, these are super convenient.
Plus, this isn’t just any old chicken; it’s stuffed! Imagine tender, juicy chicken filled with a savory, herb infused bread stuffing. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
It’s also a fantastic option if you’re looking for chicken breast recipes healthy and flavorful. The stuffing uses fresh veggies and herbs, making it a well rounded meal. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a meal that’s all in one?
This recipe is also incredibly budget friendly. You’re using everyday ingredients that won’t break the bank, which is always a plus. It proves that delicious food doesn’t need to be expensive.
So, if you’re ready to add a new favorite to your collection of simple chicken recipes, stick around. This one is truly a keeper and will impress everyone at your dinner table.
Ingredients
Gathering your ingredients for these easy chicken breast recipes is a breeze. You likely have most of these items in your pantry already. Fresh is always best, but don’t hesitate to use what you have on hand.
- 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup onion (finely chopped)
- ½ cup celery (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary leaves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups bread cubes (day old preferred)
Step By Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! These easy chicken breast recipes are all about straightforward steps that lead to amazing results. Follow along, and you’ll have a fantastic meal ready in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing
Grab a large skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. Add your finely chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic. Cook these veggies until they’re nicely softened and fragrant. This usually takes a few minutes.
Next, stir in the bread cubes, chicken broth, parsley, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Keep cooking and stirring until the bread cubes are fully moistened and have absorbed all that lovely broth.
If your bread cubes are on the thicker side, you might find it helpful to use a potato masher. This will break them down a bit, making the stuffing easier to handle and ensuring it’s well combined. Set this savory mixture aside to cool down.
Step 2: Prep the Chicken
While your stuffing cools, preheat your oven to 375°F. Now, take your boneless skinless chicken breasts and place them flat on a cutting board. Time to create those pockets for our delicious stuffing.
Carefully slice into the thickest side of each chicken breast, creating a deep pocket. Be mindful not to cut all the way through to the other side. You want a nice pouch to hold all that goodness.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken
Once your stuffing has cooled a bit, it’s time to fill those chicken pockets. Spoon the stuffing mixture into each prepared chicken breast. Remember, don’t overfill them; you want the chicken to cook evenly.
To make sure the stuffing stays put during cooking, secure the opening of each chicken breast with a few toothpicks. This little trick helps keep all that amazing flavor locked inside.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in an oven proof skillet over medium high heat. Once shimmering, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side.
You’re looking for a beautiful golden brown crust. This searing step adds so much flavor and helps seal in the juices. It’s a game changer for any of your easy chicken breast recipes.
After searing, transfer the entire skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for food safety.
Step 5: Serve
Once the chicken is done, take the skillet out of the oven. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period is crucial; it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your chicken stays tender and moist.
Before serving, don’t forget to carefully remove those toothpicks! Then, plate up your gorgeous stuffed chicken breasts with your favorite side dishes. Enjoy your fantastic meal!
How To Store Leftovers
Got some extra stuffed chicken? Lucky you! Storing leftovers from these easy chicken breast recipes is super simple and ensures you have another tasty meal ready to go.
First, make sure the chicken has cooled down completely to room temperature. This is important to prevent any bacterial growth. Never put hot food directly into the fridge.
Once cool, transfer the chicken to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. It makes for a wonderful lunch the next day, trust me!
For reheating, you can gently warm it in the microwave until heated through. Or, for a crispier exterior, pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes. Just make sure it reaches 165°F internally.
You can also freeze individual portions. Wrap each stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This is a great way to meal prep some chicken breast recipes healthy and convenient for later.
Tips
Want to make these easy chicken breast recipes even better? Here are a few handy tips to elevate your stuffed chicken game and make it truly shine. Little tweaks can make a big difference!
Don’t skip the sear: That initial sear in the skillet isn’t just for looks. It locks in moisture and develops a rich, savory crust that adds depth of flavor. It’s a key step for delicious boneless skinless chicken breast recipes.
Use day old bread: For the stuffing, day old bread works best. It’s a bit drier, which means it absorbs the chicken broth and flavors better without getting mushy. Fresh bread can sometimes turn a bit pasty.
Season your chicken: Before stuffing, a light sprinkle of salt and pepper on the outside of the chicken breasts can really boost the overall taste. Don’t rely solely on the stuffing for flavor.
Get creative with the stuffing: While our recipe is fantastic, feel free to personalize it. Add some chopped mushrooms, spinach, or a bit of grated Parmesan cheese to the stuffing mixture. That’s the beauty of simple chicken recipes.
Monitor oven temperature: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your chicken. An instant read thermometer is your best friend here, ensuring your chicken is perfectly cooked to 165°F without drying out.
Resting is crucial: We mentioned it in the instructions, but it bears repeating. Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking helps the juices settle, resulting in a much more tender and moist piece of chicken.
Serving suggestions: This stuffed chicken pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, or even some fluffy rice. Think about what complements the savory stuffing best.
These tips will help you master this dish and make it one of your go to easy chicken breast recipes. You’ll be cooking like a seasoned pro in no time!
Conclusion
Well, there you have it, folks! A truly delightful and easy chicken breast recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. This stuffed chicken breast dish brings together comfort, flavor, and simplicity in one amazing package.
It’s proof that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen or use complicated techniques to create something truly special. These boneless skinless chicken breast recipes are perfect for anyone, from beginner cooks to seasoned pros.
Whether you’re looking for chicken breast recipes healthy options or just some simple chicken recipes to spice up your weeknight menu, this one ticks all the boxes. It’s flavorful, satisfying, and easy on the budget.
So go ahead, give this recipe a try! Gather your ingredients, follow our step by step guide, and get ready to enjoy a fantastic meal. Happy cooking, everyone!
FAQ
Can I Use Different Bread For The Stuffing?
Absolutely! While day old white or whole wheat bread works great, you can experiment. Sourdough, challah, or even cornbread can add unique flavors to your easy chicken breast recipes. Just make sure it’s day old for best texture.
Can I Prepare The Stuffing Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you sure can! You can make the stuffing mixture a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This is a great time saver for these simple chicken recipes.
How Do I Know When The Chicken Is Cooked Through?
The best way is to use an instant read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding the stuffing. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to be safely cooked.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten Free?
Yes, easily! Just swap out the regular bread cubes for your favorite gluten free bread. This makes it a fantastic option among chicken breast recipes healthy and accommodating for dietary needs.
What If I Don’t Have An Oven Proof Skillet?
No worries! You can sear the chicken in a regular skillet on the stovetop. Then, transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish or sheet pan to finish baking in the oven. It works just as well for these boneless skinless chicken breast recipes.
Easy Herb-Stuffed Chicken Breast
This easy stuffed chicken breast recipe is the perfect no-fuss weeknight dinner. Tender chicken is filled with a savory herb and bread stuffing, seared, and baked to perfection. A comforting and family-friendly meal that comes together in under an hour!
Requirements
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the Stuffing: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened. Stir in the bread cubes, chicken broth, parsley, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper until the bread is fully moistened. Set aside to cool.
- Prep the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a cutting board, carefully slice a deep pocket into the thickest side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the cooled stuffing mixture into the pocket of each chicken breast. Secure the opening with a few toothpicks to keep the stuffing inside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Remove the toothpicks before serving with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
Use Day-Old Bread: For the best stuffing texture that isn’t mushy, use bread that is slightly dry. It absorbs the broth and flavors much better.
Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing the chicken before baking creates a delicious golden-brown crust and helps lock in the juices, keeping the meat tender.
Check for Doneness: An instant read thermometer is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly to 165°F without drying it out.
Let it Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking is crucial. It lets the juices redistribute, resulting in a much more moist and flavorful chicken breast.
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